Tom Parnell

Architectural Historian in Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Tom Parnell

Architectural Historian in Edinburgh, United Kingdom

View my photos

Who am I? I'm an architectural historian of sorts. Of Edinburgh.

I studied at the University of Edinburgh, graduating in 2003. I'd been under the impression that I wanted to be an architect, but changed my mind and switched to architectural history. Heritage, sociology, politics & art - that's architectural history. And it's non-stop fascinating. I'm not particularly interested in the heritage sector bubble: I'm much more comfortable speaking to the wider public about their/our/everyone's heritage. I'm not an 'expert' - I'm a generalist professional who wants to, tries to, enable others.

Now back in the public sector, I spent eight years as a heritage consultant in the private sector. I also had twelve years as a volunteer caseworker for a fantastic charity, the Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland, the last four of which were as the cases panel convenor. I'm still involved in AHSS events - lectures & tours.

I'm a keen amatuer photographer - visit my Flickr, and enjoy!

Politics? I'm a member of the Scottish Green Party, but not particularly actively. I proudly and confidently voted 'yes' in September 2014. I believe in accountable, and local, government, with sustainability, equality, and international co-operation at the heart of all we do. We're not there yet.

  • Education
    • University of Edinburgh